Izzy’ leads intense Chicago Bears' pass rush

Monday

Sep 24, 2012 at 12:01 AMSep 24, 2012 at 6:48 AM

CHICAGO — Defensive end Israel Idonije had his first sack of the season during Sunday’s victory over the Rams, and he didn’t stop there, earning 2 1/2 to go along with his two tackles for loss. He spread the credit around after the game, insisting the defensive line rotation has been a big part of the unit’s early-season success.

Jay Taft

CHICAGO — Defensive end Israel Idonije had his first sack of the season during Sunday’s victory over the Rams, and he didn’t stop there, earning 2 1/2 to go along with his two tackles for loss. He spread the credit around after the game, insisting the defensive line rotation has been a big part of the unit’s early-season success.

“A lot of it is better because of the rotation we have, absolutely. But it’s better because we are working well together right now, too,” he said. “We all believe we can keep this going. Of course, it will take more than just believing we can, but we’ve got a good group of guys who are all working together right now.”

Paea steps up play
Second-year defensive tackle Stephen Paea had his best game as a Bear on Sunday, registering one sack while spending plenty of time in the Rams’ backfield. Paea also had one tackle for loss and another QB hit, and he forced Sam Bradford to get rid of the ball early with pressure from the inside on two other occasions.

“That’s what we need to do. We need to get pressure on the quarterback. If it’s not sacks, then it is pressure on the quarterback that changes the game,” Paea said. “He’s the one that has the ball. He’s going to make decisions a couple plays later. If he’s hurt, he’s going to make tough decisions.”

Rodriguez goes down
Bears running back Matt Forte (ankle) did not play, but Chicago was healthy headed into Sunday’s game, and was pretty healthy coming out of it. Rookie fullback/tight end Evan Rodriguez (knee) left in the first half and did not return, but he was seen leaving the locker room after the game without crutches, and no other Bear missed time.

Notes: The 160 offensive yards were the third-lowest total by a Bears opponent in the Lovie Smith era. ... CB Tim Jennings had his fourth pick of the season, and dating back to Week 17 of the 2011 season, Jennings now has an interception in four straight contests.